Importing and Exporting in STL Format

Importing STL (3D only)

The Vectorworks program imports Stereolithography (STL) files, which are widely used for 3D printing, prototyping, and manufacturing. Polygon mesh objects import into a Vectorworks file as mesh objects.

To import an STL file:

Select File > Import > Import STL (3D only).

The Import STL File dialog box opens.

Select the file to import, and click Open.

Alternatively, click the file to import and drag it into an open Vectorworks file.

Exporting STL (3D only)

The Export STL (3D Only) command exports 3D surfaces and solids to an STL (Stereolithography) file. Once exported, this file can be used for rapid prototyping purposes or imported into other CAD packages.

To export an STL file:

If 3D objects from only one layer should be exported, make that layer active. If only selected objects should be exported, select the objects.

Select File > Export > Export STL (3D only).

The Export STL Options dialog box opens.

Click to show/hide the parameters.

Select the export options, and then click OK.

Specify the export file name and destination, and then click Save.

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Parameter	Description
Export
Selected Objects on Active Layer	Exports only selected 3D objects from the active layer
All Visible Objects on Active Layer	Exports all visible 3D objects from the active layer (including objects in design layer viewports)
All Visible Objects on All Layers	Exports all visible 3D objects from all layers in the Vectorworks file (including objects in design layer viewports)
File Type	Select ASCII or Binary for the file type
Export Quality (Number of Polygons)	Controls the conversion quality of 3D objects that have rounded sides. Move the slider bar to the left to convert rounded objects using fewer large polygons (thus lower quality). Move the bar to the right to create rounded objects of higher quality. Exporting more polygons slows down the export and increases the size of the output file.